Akinfeleye: Federal Government Must Acknowledge the Media’s Vital Role
At the third annual milestone recognition of media icons in Nigeria, Professor Ralph Akinfeleye, a distinguished Communications scholar, emphasized the critical role of the media in achieving sustainable national development. Speaking at the event, held in Ikeja, Lagos, Akinfeleye urged governments at all levels not to underestimate the media’s influence and responsibilities.
The event, themed “Media Legends: Inspiring Generations,” honored notable figures in journalism and featured Aremo Olusegun Osoba, represented by Segun Aderinye, as the Father of the Day. It also welcomed the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr. Chris Isiguzo, and other media dignitaries, including the President of the Nigeria Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba.
Akinfeleye, who chaired the occasion, highlighted the constitutional mandate of journalists under Nigeria’s Chapter Two and Section 22.
“You have a journalistic obligation to monitor the government and ensure accountability to the people,” he stated. He encouraged journalists to go beyond traditional roles as agenda setters and gatekeepers, urging them to adopt a journalism of conscience focused on peace and development.
“We should play the role of mediators, calling the government to action and creating an enabling environment for addressing national security issues,” he said, advocating for the establishment of state police to complement national forces. “In doing so, we must remember that the press is vital to democracy. A free press is synonymous with democracy,” Akinfeleye added.
He cautioned government officials not to take the media for granted, stressing, “You will need the press more than they need you. They can help mitigate the challenges posed by social media, which often exacerbates societal issues.”
Isiguzo echoed Akinfeleye’s sentiments, stating, “The media is the heartbeat of democracy, ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. We are the watchdogs of public interest, committed to amplifying the people’s voices amidst political noise.”
